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Nature & wildlife · Santa Cruz

Top 10 nature & wildlife things to do in Santa Cruz

Wildlife, forests, gardens, and the green pockets of Santa Cruz that make it bearable in monsoon and beautiful by November. Day trips and short drives where the landscape is the point.

  1. Madeira’s Fanal Assobiadores Guided Nature Walk, Santa Cruz1

    1. Madeira’s Fanal Assobiadores Guided Nature Walk

    · 5 hours

    Embark on a breathtaking hike from Paul da Serra to Fanal, one of the few places in Madeira where you can see the Laurissilva vegetation at its best. Admire ancient trees, birds, and breathtaking views over the Ribeira da Janela and Chão da Ribeira valleys. Enjoy the magnificent Fanal area, a small volcanic crater classified as a rest reserve by the Madeira Natural Park. Discover the beauty of this area, which lies not only in the forest of large century-old Ocofea foefens trees. A very special walking expedition for regular hikers! Walking time: approx. 4.5 hrs. Walking distance: 11.5 km. Difficulty Grade: Moderate Walk.

  2. Madeira Amazing West on Jeep Safari Mountain Expedition, Santa Cruz2

    2. Madeira Amazing West on Jeep Safari Mountain Expedition

    · 7 hours

    Embark on a thrilling full-day adventure along Madeira’s rugged North Coast! This unforgettable safari takes you deep into the island’s stunning landscapes as you drive through some of its most scenic and iconic locations like: Funchal, Lugar de Baixo, Candelaria, Lombo Mouro, Paul da Serra, Fanal, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and São Vicente. Breathe in the pure, fresh air of the mystical Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as you explore Madeira's most breathtaking natural wonders. With crystal-clear skies, majestic views, and hidden treasures around every corner, this tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the island’s wild, untouched beauty. Whether you're gazing at the dramatic coastline, exploring volcanic rock formations, or wandering through lush forests, this adventure is sure to leave you inspired. Available daily, don’t miss your chance to discover the true heart of Madeira!

  3. Madeira Combo Tour: Levada Walk & Jeep Safari, Santa Cruz3

    3. Madeira Combo Tour: Levada Walk & Jeep Safari

    · 7 hours

    Prepare for a full-day adventure and begin with a drive into the Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its mild subtropical climate makes exploring this 40-million-year-old forest a delight, with ancient trees plunging into valleys and waterfalls cascading from cliffs, creating a magical atmosphere. After touring the forest, head out on foot to reach the summit of Pico do Arieiro where panoramic views of Madeira Island await. Next, visit the Miradouro do Guindaste viewpoint at Madeira’s northeastern tip, where dramatic sea cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean. Continue south to Porto da Cruz, home to one of Madeira’s oldest Catholic parishes, overlooked by the majestic Penha de Águia, a refuge for endangered seabirds. End your day at the jewel of Madeira’s east: Ponta de São Lourenço, where volcanic cliffs meet the endless Atlantic.

  1. Ponta de São Lourenço (PR 8) - Hiking Tour in Madeira, Santa Cruz4

    4. Ponta de São Lourenço (PR 8) - Hiking Tour in Madeira

    4.9· 33 reviews· 6 hours

    The Ponta de São Lourenço tour is unique for its spectacular rocky coast at the furthest eastern corner of the island, offering amazing views over both the north and south of Madeira. The dramatic, arid landscapes and serene hiking trails through this protected nature reserve make it a perfect adventure for nature lovers.

  2. Levada do Caldeirão Verde Self-Guided Hike in Madeira, Santa Cruz5

    5. Levada do Caldeirão Verde Self-Guided Hike in Madeira

    4.9· 94 reviews· 6 hours

    Discover the beauty of Madeira on the scenic Levada do Caldeirão Verde trail. This self-guided hike takes you through the lush Laurissilva forest, featuring historic levadas and stunning waterfalls. Start with convenient morning pickup from Funchal, Caniço, or Garajau before being driven to Pico das Pedras, the trailhead. Along the way, navigate through tunnels and enjoy the serene views of the Caldeirão Verde lake. With a total hike of approximately 16 km and an estimated duration of 4.5 to 5.5 hours, this adventure is ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking a memorable outdoor experience. - Self-guided hike along the picturesque Levada do Caldeirão Verde - Morning pickup from Funchal, Caniço, or Garajau for convenience - Expert local driver provides insights for a safe hiking experience - Total distance of 16 km with an average duration of 4.5 to 5.5 hours

  3. Self Guided Transfer to Ponta de São Lourenço Natural Reserve, Santa Cruz6

    6. Self Guided Transfer to Ponta de São Lourenço Natural Reserve

    4.9· 66 reviews· 3.5 hours

    Explore the iconic Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço trail with ease, thanks to convenient local transport from Funchal, Caniço, Machico, or Garajau. This self-guided hike unveils Madeira's stunning coastal landscapes and rich biodiversity over a 6 km round trip. With panoramic views of both the north and south coasts, this moderate trail offers a unique opportunity to witness rare wildlife, including the region’s largest seagull colonies and protected seabirds. After your hike, take a refreshing dip at Cais do Sardinha before your comfortable return to your pickup location, making this experience ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking adventure with flexibility.

  4. Stairway to Heaven Pico do Areeiro in Madeira Island, Santa Cruz7

    7. Stairway to Heaven Pico do Areeiro in Madeira Island

    4.9· 31 reviews

    Embark on an adventure through Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes, starting in the Ecological Park of Funchal, surrounded by lush greenery and diverse terrain. The trail leads to Poço da Neve, offering unique views over Funchal harbor. Continue along the PR3 Vereda do Burro trail to the majestic Pico do Areeiro, the island’s third-highest peak. From here, the path guides you to the stunning Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, where you’ll witness Madeira’s rugged beauty. Then, head to Pedra Rija viewpoint, another breathtaking stop. Next, tackle the challenging yet rewarding “Stairway to Heaven,” where the ascent promises awe-inspiring vistas. After conquering this iconic climb, return to Pico do Areeiro to complete your hike. This route is perfect for seasoned hikers and nature lovers, offering some of the most spectacular views Madeira has to offer. Experience the island's wilderness and let it captivate your soul!

  5. Levada do Rei PR18 Scenic Hike in Madeira with Transfer Service, Santa Cruz8

    8. Levada do Rei PR18 Scenic Hike in Madeira with Transfer Service

    4.8· 30 reviews· 4 hours

    Discover the beauty of Madeira on a scenic self-guided hike along Levada do Rei, one of the island's most picturesque trails. Enjoy a convenient morning pickup from Funchal, Caniço, Garajau, or Machico before setting off to São Jorge with an experienced local guide. The moderate 4-hour trek begins at the Quebradas Water Treatment Station, leading you through lush forests and traditional agricultural lands. Explore tunnels and vibrant greenery as you make your way to Ribeiro Bonito, a hidden gem within the Laurissilva forest. After your adventure, unwind with a comfortable return to your pickup point. - 4-hour moderate hike along the stunning Levada do Rei trail - Pickup from various locations including Funchal and Machico - Experience Madeira's exotic forests and wildlife up close - Ideal for nature lovers seeking a self-guided exploration

  6. 25 Fountains Levada: Hiking Tour in Madeira Rabaçal Valley (PR6), Santa Cruz9

    9. 25 Fountains Levada: Hiking Tour in Madeira Rabaçal Valley (PR6)

    4.7· 198 reviews· 7 hours

    Starting in the serene Paul da Serra and descending into the stunning Rabaçal Valley, you'll walk through the lush Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Unlike other tours, we include a visit to the magnificent Risco Waterfall, adding an extra layer of awe to your journey. Plus, our return route takes you through a 500-meter ancient tunnel, ending on the south side of Madeira, providing a unique and memorable conclusion to your adventure.

  7. Levada do Rei (PR18) - Through Madeira's Majestic Laurissilva, Santa Cruz10

    10. Levada do Rei (PR18) - Through Madeira's Majestic Laurissilva

    4.7· 3 reviews· 4 hours

    "Ribeiro Bonito" (Beautiful River) is the name given to the torrential stream that feeds the Levada do Rei. This enchanting walk along the "King´s Levada" leads through a fairly pristine laurel forest (world heritahe by UNESCO since 1999) penetrating deep into the delightful valley of the Ribeiro Bonito. This amazing hike take place in the north of Madeira Island.

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